Tlholohelo Mosala
Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane discouraged parents and guardians from voting for School Governing Body (SGB) candidates who will promote political agendas.
Chiloane addressed parents at the official launch of the 2024 SGB elections on Wednesday at Raymond Mhlaba Maths, Science & ICT School of Specialisation in Tshepisong, Roodepoort.
Every three years, schools in South Africa are expected to elect new SGB members and the tenth cycle of elections will take place from 1 – 31 March 2024 at all public ordinary and special schools.
Research conducted by the department has consistently shown that schools with active SGBs excel across various metrics, including academic performance, learner well-being, and community engagement.
But Chiloane said parents and guardians must be careful who they elect as members of school governing bodies to avoid bringing politics to the schooling environment.
“Parents must reject those who bring party politics in our schools, we can’t, we need parents who are going to properly serve us, because sometimes after these parents are elected they mess up and we end up encountering a lot of problems,” he said.
Chiloane said a school’s ultimate success is dependent on a well-functioning SGB. Therefore, parents and guardians are encouraged to play their part in ensuring the successful governance of their children’s schools by voting in the 2024 SGB elections from 1 – 31 March 2024
Chiloane officially launched the 2024 School Governing Body (SGB) Elections campaign today, and he signed a pledge alongside SGB associations to uphold transparency and inclusivity.
“We have every reason to have so much faith in our SGB’s because, upon election, our governors go through several developmental programs by Matthew Goniwe School of Leadership and Governance to ensure that they are fit for purpose, ” he said.
School Governing Bodies are the backbone of school communities, the department said, adding that they ensure that schools are not merely institutions of learning but beacons of hope, character, and community spirit.
The stark reality is that in the past, participation rates have not matched our aspirations. Despite the undeniable importance of SGBs, turnout has lingered around the 40% mark. This is not just a missed opportunity—it’s a call to action.
“Their (SGBs)impact is profound and far-reaching, with roles encompassing financial management, policy formulation, and staff appointment,” the department said.
The Department of Education said it stands firmly committed to conducting these elections with unwavering integrity adding that transparency and inclusivity are guiding principles to ensure every voice is heard.
Parents, teachers, non-teaching staff, learners (in high schools), and community members are encouraged to participate and have their say.
SGBs serve as a vital link, fostering understanding and collaboration between schools and the communities they serve.
On Wednesday, parents and guardians heard that the schools are the bedrock of society, nurturing the minds and futures of children and our entire nation.
The department said campaigns will provide comprehensive resources on the roles and significance of SGBs, the election process, and how every individual can contribute.
Last week, the Minister of Basic Education Angie Motshekga launched the School Governing Bodies 2024 Elections held at Ronnie Mamoepa Media Centre (GCIS) Pretoria.
She said the correlation between engaged SGBs and school success is undeniable. Schools with high SGB participation report an average 20% higher pass rate than those with lower engagement.
Motshekga said incidents of vandalism and truancy decrease significantly in schools with active governing bodies.
“These are not just numbers—they are compelling evidence of the power of active participation. Our vision is for every school to harness this potential, translating active governance into tangible outcomes for our children.
“They are not mere structures but vibrant knowledge, growth, and empowerment hubs. At the heart of this dynamism lie the SGBs – the unsung heroes who bridge the gap between communities and classrooms, working tirelessly to build environments where every child can flourish,” she said, adding the SGBs should reflect this vibrant tapestry, ensuring no voice is left unheard to craft a comprehensive approach to basic education that leaves no child behind.
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